Two Cardex Library Cabinets in different sizes are available separately (24 Drawer now sold / 45 Drawer Cabinet now sold)
Note the variation details
Now fully functional and versatile, these library cabinets are perfect for storing everything from wine collections to craft supplies or bedroom essentials. A timeless piece with endless possibilities.
Two beautifully restored library cardex cabinets manufactured by CF Prins in South Africa, an exquisite piece of archival furniture originally designed for storing index cards in public libraries, schools, and research institutions before the digital era - a perfect blend of historical significance and modern utility.
Each piece has been:
- Expertly sanded and sealed to bring out the natural grain and durability of the oak.
- Every piece of hardware was removed, cleaned, and polished
- Fitted with original polished brass handles and name tag holders, adding vintage charm and practical elegance.
- Restored to preserve the clean lines and classic proportions of its original design. Maker's mark intact.
Storage solutions for a wide variety of modern uses:
- Wine bottle storage with space for labeling each drawer.
- Tool, craft, or art supply organisation.
- Office storage for stationery, documents, or tech accessories.
- Jewelry or apothecary-style personal storage.
24-Drawer Cabinet:
- In excellent restored condition.
- One drawer front & name holder has been replaced to match the original style, slight variation.
- No internal rods present, making drawer interiors more flexible for varied storage.
- Overall Dimensions: 104cm W X 46cm D X 131.5cm H
- Drawers: 15cm W X 46cm D X 10cm H
45-Drawer Cabinet: NOW SOLD
- In excellent original & restored condition.
- All 45 drawers are intact with their original adjustable internal rod mechanism, originally designed to keep index cards upright and secure.
- Overall Dimensions: 153.5cm W X 55.5cm D X 144cm H
- Drawers: 15cm W X 55cm D X 10cm H
- A rare, fully functional example of CF Prins’ original design.
Historical Significance: The CF Prins catalogue cabinets were a staple in libraries across South Africa during the 20th century. Each drawer held a curated collection of index cards that offered detailed, organized access to library holdings — a tangible search engine of its time. The cabinet represents an era when information was accessed through meticulous manual systems, with each drawer representing a portal to knowledge.
These cabinets were built for durability and heavy daily use. The enduring quality of both the wood and joinery speaks to its functional craftsmanship and mid-century design ethos. It tells a story of a time when order, knowledge, and tactile interaction with records were paramount.
Shipping Information:
If you are purchasing an item and you are based in Cape Town, Durban, or any area outside Gauteng, please select the 'LOCAL PICK-UP' option at check-out and do not choose a shipment option.
Please be aware that we cannot reserve any items until transportation or shipping arrangements have been finalized. Therefore, it is important to purchase the item and proceed with the checkout process.
After your purchase is complete, you are welcome to arrange your own method of transport. If you require our assistance, we can help you obtain a shipping quote based on the dimensions of the item(s) you have bought. Please email us at shop@retrend.co.za so we can provide cost estimates for shipping to your area from our preferred suppliers. For more detailed information, please refer to our shipping policy.
Note/Disclaimer:
Our images form part of the item/s description. Although every effort is made to refurbish our furniture to represent its original state best, it must be noted that most of the items we source date from the 1950s to the late 1970s. For this reason, and although restored, signs of their vintage condition & age might still be visible. We will normally point out any visible/notable concerns. Take note of all photos or view the item in-store prior to purchasing.
As with most Mid-Century pieces, it is a good combination of solid wood and a high-quality wood veneer. The history of veneer on furniture is a long and honorable tradition, and it depends on the veneer's artistry, condition, and thickness. The quality of the old veneer was long-lasting; for this reason, it can be retouched or sanded and refinished